
Searched and Known

Thoughts on life and faith after unexpected life changes at an advanced age

To receive rewards, many times we have to be in the right place and in the correct relationship. So to receive airline rewards, we first need to become members in their programs and then spend time in their presence flying on their planes.
Psalm 18:24 says, “So the LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.” The word “sight” refers to God’s complete knowledge and understanding, as well as what is true in His presence. So we are in a better position to receive rewards from God when we are walking in His presence through righteousness by faith.

Suppose you were pleading your case in a court of law. You would want to enlist the services of the most qualified attorney or advocate you could trust. You would want them to learn everything they could about your case and related laws. How much more confidence would it give you if they had experienced all that you went through and felt the suffering that you did?
Hebrews 7:25 says, “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Jesus is always seated at the right hand of the Father making requests for each of us who trust in Him. Jesus is the perfect advocate and intercessor for us because He has suffered in every way that we have and knows every weakness that we can possess. So when He speaks to the Father on our behalf, He speaks with complete knowledge and empathy. He speaks with the full authority and power of the Son of God.

Politicians listen to the voices of their constituents and political polls, but often only the voices that agree with their ideologies. Celebrities are constantly seeking the attention of fans, doing what pleases the throngs of admirers. Social media influencers go to extremes to find and please followers.
John 19:12 says, “From then on Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, ‘If you release this man, you are not Caesar’s friend. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.'” At the trial of Jesus, Pilate yielded to the desire of the crowd and condemned Jesus, even though he knew that Jesus was innocent. Yielding to popular opinion can lead us far from truth and God’s will. We are in great danger when we seek to please people rather than God.

To consistently make good decisions and do good things we need to practice these behaviors. When we were small we practiced riding a bike until we gained confidence and consistently rode the bike under control. Later in life we learned some computer skills and practiced them over time to become proficient.
Hebrews 5:14 says, “But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.” Just like most things, we must practice distinguishing right from wrong in order to improve the choices that we make. Over time we will become proficient at identifying wisdom and practicing righteousness in the power of God’s Spirit.

Our lives are so chaotic and stressful at times that we seek comfort in a variety of ways. In fact, there is even a food category called comfort food. Some seek comfort in solitude, while other people seek comfort in the company of many people. Some people seek comfort in hobbies and activities. Other people seek comfort in less desirable ways, like consuming drugs or alcohol.
Psalm 119:76 says, “Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. “We shouldn’t just go through our day blindly doing routine things. We should take time to remember God’s steadfast love for us and find comfort in His abundant love for His children. God protects and provides for His children, as any good parent would do, but does so with a abundant love that is His alone.